True Greatness

Today’s Gospel presents a powerful lesson about leadership, service, and what it truly means to follow Christ. We hear of James and John, two of Jesus’ closest disciples, asking for a privileged place at His side in His glory. They sought positions of honor, perhaps thinking Jesus was about to establish an earthly kingdom. Jesus, however, takes this moment to teach them, and all of us, that His Kingdom is not like the kingdoms of the world. The path to greatness in God’s Kingdom is through humble service and sacrificial love.

The readings challenge us to examine our own understanding of greatness and leadership. Are we seeking recognition, influence, or control in our lives? Or are we willing to serve, even when it goes unnoticed, even when it involves sacrifice?

We are also called to reflect on how we approach suffering. Jesus invites us to take up our cross and follow Him, to share in His cup of suffering and His baptism of sacrifice. This doesn’t mean we seek out suffering for its own sake, but it does mean that we are willing to endure difficulty and hardship in the name of love and service.

The Gospel offers us a radical vision of what it means to be a follower of Christ. It calls us to reject worldly notions of greatness and embrace a life of humble service. Jesus, the Servant King, has shown us the way. He came not to be served but to serve, and He invites us to do the same.

As we continue in this Eucharist, let us ask for the grace to follow in His footsteps, to drink the cup of suffering with courage, and to lead by serving others with love and humility. Let us strive not for worldly glory, but for the greatness that comes from living as Christ lived—pouring out our lives in service to God and one another.